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Making the right decision for a heating appliance is compulsory to prevent headaches. Especially in the freezing winters of Pennsylvania, it becomes crucial for every homeowner and every business owner to choose the right warmth partner. Furnace and heat pump are the two most popular options in this regard.
This guide helps customers understand the key differences between a heat pump and a furnace, the pros and cons of each, cost variations, and long-term benefits.
Fuel-fired furnaces operate by burning fuel, which may be natural gas, oil, or propane. On the other hand, electric furnaces use an electric supply as a source of input energy. The working mechanism of a furnace is to warm air and distribute it through ducts or vents. AFUE is a standard unit to measure the efficiency of a furnace, which shows how much energy is transferred into usable heat.
Heat pumps work by transferring heat between inside and outside. The air-source heat pumps transfer heat into the inside, taking it from the outside atmosphere. Ground-source heat pumps extract heat from the ground and deliver it to rooms. Cold-climate models, on the other hand, use a more powerful refrigerant cycle to bring heat inside despite the frosty cold outside.
Efficiency ratings help you understand the output of each unit. The higher rating means more output per unit. AFUE is for furnaces, while HSPF and COP apply to heat pumps. Most of the modern systems are rated according to SEER2, which is an updated standard. These ratings also affect the eligibility for rebates and incentives.
Winters across Pennsylvania are characterized by periods with extremely low temperatures. This makes the heat pumps consume more energy to extract the heat from cold surroundings. Furnaces, however, maintain their output despite below-freezing temperatures. The overall efficiency still depends on the fuel type and system specifications.
Dual fuel setups or backups are efficient in maintaining comfort even in extreme conditions. Their working mechanism is simple. In milder days, the main system handles the cold. When there is extraordinary coldness or a high heating load, the backup system jumps in and contributes to the warmth. This collective effect is proven to maintain comfort in colder areas, especially in northern or rural areas.
Furnaces that burn fuel require proper ventilation and exhaust as they produce combustion byproducts. The heat pumps on the other side operate on electricity and don’t emit such products. When it comes to noise, heat pumps offer quieter operation; however, outdoor units may produce some noise due to defrost cycles. Humidity is also an important factor to be considered. Heat pumps generally remove moisture during operation, but this may lead to dry homes.
Utility rates vary greatly across various regions in Pennsylvania. Natural gas is generally less expensive than electricity in many areas, but this gap also depends on the efficiency of the system, insulation quality, and electricity charges. In some countryside or off-gas areas, electricity is the only option available.
Furnaces generally cost less to purchase (especially gas or oil models) than heat pumps. The same is true for furnace installation cost. On the other hand, heat pumps perform both heating and cooling functions and therefore are costly to buy. A residential heat pump installation in PA eliminates the need for installing a separate air conditioner. Maintenance of both is required and costs some fees. For example, the fuel systems are checked for combustion safety. Similarly, heat pumps also need regular cleaning of coils and refrigerant check-ups to perform optimally.
A high-quality and well-maintained furnace can last as long as 15 to 20 years. Heat pumps may also have a lifespan between 10 to 20 years, depending on the usage, specifications, and maintenance. Harsh weather, defrost cycles, and electrical spikes are some factors that contribute to wear costs.
There are certain energy code requirements (IECC / IRC norms) at the local and state levels. The codes for commercial furnace installation in Pennsylvania may differ from the residential ones. The same is the case for heat pump installation. The local contractors know better about these codes and considerations.
Many counties like Lehigh, Northampton, Bucks, etc, require local permits for installing an HVAC appliance like a furnace or heat pump. The inspectors check the location, ductwork, ventilation, and safety regulations for this purpose. Familiarity with the local permits and codes helps prevent delays.
Correct sizing is crucial for optimal performance. Oversized systems waste energy and raise bills. Undersized units are unable to deliver comfort in extreme conditions. Existing ductwork also has an influence on the efficiency of the system. Ductless units are ideal options for homes without accurate ductwork.
Multiple federal programs allow customers in Pennsylvania to claim incentives (such as under the Inflation Reduction Act) for specific equipment. These credits cover some of the installation and related costs.
Many Pennsylvania utilities also offer rebates for installation, upgrade, or replacement of high-efficiency systems. There are certain standards, like ENERGY STAR, to qualify for these rebate programs.
There are specific programs for low-income families or homes that have high cost burdens. One of the primary purposes of these programs is to promote electrification, which is basically switching from fuel usage to electricity.
Get your units inspected before winter hits. Check burners, thermostat, heat exchangers, and test combustion safety for a furnace. For heat pumps, make sure to inspect the refrigerant level, clean coils, check the location of the outdoor unit, and verify the defrost cycle.
During the winter, clean air filters regularly, make sure the air pathways are unobstructed, monitor energy bills, and smartly set the settings of the thermostat settings. Add a compensatory backup, especially during very cold periods of time.
When winter ends, do maintenance again to prepare it for the next season. In the case of a heat pump, make adjustments related to the cooling season ahead. Check for any wear and tear due to the previous season, ensure proper insulation, and perform component maintenance.
Choosing the right heating appliance for winters in Pennsylvania means balancing the costs with comfort and performance. For many homes in Lehigh Valley, Allentown, Bethlehem, and surrounding counties, high quality heat pump or a dual fuel system is best suited for year-round comfort. When combined with proper insulation and accurate ductwork, the equipment performs efficiently for longer periods.
Lehigh HVAC offers climate-centric installations, ongoing support, and payment flexibility through GreenSky financing options. Contact us to schedule an on-site survey to evaluate which system fits your budget, climate, and heating or cooling needs.
